Officer involved shooting reported in Independence

An officer involved shooting has been reported near 24 Highway and North Crysler Street in Independence.

Police said the shooting happened during a chase between officers and two men in a truck that had been reported stolen.

Police said they were aware that the men had guns in the truck. They said they flattened the truck's tires and then the men got out and exchanged shots with the officers.

One of the men was hit by the gunfire. He was taken to a hospital, but police said they expect him to survive. The second man was taken into custody.

Police said no officers were injured in the shooting.

"I saw them come up 24 Highway, but they really weren't moving very fast. I knew it was a chase because I saw a cop trying to get around him," said witness Jason Whorley. "The guy tried to ram the (car) and the police were trying to yell to stop the vehicle and he rammed the car."

He said he heard three or four shots.

Traffic was blocked on Crysler Avenue and reduced to one lane on Independence Avenue until police were able to clear the scene.

Independence Police public information officer Tom Gentry said the incident proved how dangerous an officer's job can be.

"You just never know who or what you may encounter on the streets," he said.

Copyright 2013 byKMBC.com All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Comments

The views expressed are not those of this site, this station or its affiliated companies. By posting your comments you agree to accept our terms of use.